“Is depression just feeling sad?” The answer is no.
Depression (also known as Major Depressive Disorder, MDD) is a common yet treatable mental health condition. It is not simply “feeling down” or “overthinking.” Instead, it is a complex illness involving brain chemistry, emotional regulation, and stress response systems.

🌿 Key Symptoms of Depression
To be diagnosed with depression, symptoms typically last two weeks or longer and interfere with daily life. Common signs include:

• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities
• Changes in sleep (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Appetite changes (eating more or less than usual)
• Fatigue or low energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• In severe cases, hallucinations or thoughts of self-harm

🌍 How Common Is Depression?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO):

• Around 3.8% of the global population is affected by depression
• Among adults, the rate is about 5%
• Women are more likely than men to experience depression

In local studies, 8–10% of adults experience depression at some point in their lives. At any given time, 2–3% of the population may be going through a depressive episode. With rising social pressures, economic instability, and fast-paced lifestyles, the number of people seeking help for depression has been increasing.

💡 Why Early Help Matters
Unfortunately, many people delay seeking treatment due to stigma or lack of understanding. Depression is not a sign of weakness—it is a medical condition that requires care and support.

The good news: Depression is treatable. Effective approaches include:

• Medication (antidepressants as prescribed by a doctor)
• Psychotherapy (such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – CBT)
• Lifestyle adjustments (exercise, sleep hygiene, balanced diet etc)
• Social support (family, friends, community resources)

Early intervention greatly improves recovery and reduces the risk of relapse.

🚨 When to Seek Professional Help
If you or someone you care about has been experiencing:

• Persistent sadness
• Loss of interest in life
• Sleep or appetite changes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of hopelessness or self-harm

👉 Please do not ignore these warning signs. Seeking professional help is the first step toward healing.

Depression is not a personal failure—it is a treatable medical condition. With the right support, recovery is possible. If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, reach out to a mental health professional. Early help saves lives.